Emma Kennedy and Kellie Shirley urge Abingdon to do walk

Comedy writer Emma Kennedy and actress Kellie Shirley, best known for Sky One’s In the Long Run, are taking part in Step Up September in support of anti-poverty charity the Trussell Trust.

Step Up September is an event to help raise funds to help end the need for food banks in the UK.

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The fundraising initiative comes as the soaring cost of bills and food pushes people deeper into poverty and left with no option but to use a food bank.

The event includes people taken on the challenge of walking 30 minutes each day throughout the month and can do it in their own time and at their own pace. There is no specific distance required.

Kellie Shirley wearing her charity walk top. Picture by Kellie Shirley/Twitter

The Trussell Trust supports a nationwide network of more than 1,300 food bank centres – including two food bank centres in Abingdon – together they provide emergency food and support to help people facing hardship.

Actor and writer Mrs Kennedy said: “The cost-of-living crisis is affecting us all but for people on the lowest incomes, the cost of surviving this crisis is too high, with many unable to buy food due to huge price rises and inflation. This isn’t right.

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“This September I’ll be joining #TeamTrussell to stamp out hunger in the UK. Walk in your own time, from wherever you feel comfortable. 

“It is not the distance you travel, it’s the time you give and the money you raise to help fight for a better future.”

Actor and presenter, Mrs Shirley added: “The cost-of-living crisis is already taking toll on thousands of families here in the UK.

“People are having to face impossible decisions - between heating their homes or eating. For this reason I’ll be joining #TeamTrussell and am so excited to get involved with #StepUp this September.

“Helping to fight for a more just society, where everyone can afford the essentials. If you can, get involved too and help us build a future without the need for food banks in the UK."

Kate Merrifield, events engagement manager at the Trussell Trust, said: “It’s a challenge for everyone, whatever your fitness level, age, background or ability.

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“You can do it alone, with family, friends, your dogs, while raising vital funds to help stamp out hunger in the UK.”

“That’s why we’re urging everyone in Abingdon to put their best foot down because together, we can create a fairer, more just society.”

For more information, visit: trusselltrust.org

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Read more from this author

This story was written by Gee Harland. She joined the team in 2022 as a senior multimedia reporter.

Gee covers Wallingford, Wantage and Didcot.

Get in touch with her by emailing: Gee.harland@newsquest.co.uk

Follow her on Twitter @Geeharland

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